💼 Skilled Worker Journey

Visa, employment, Blue Card and settling in Germany.

11 steps Official sources linked Last updated: June 2026
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Your roadmap

Follow these steps in order. Each step links to the relevant guide or official authority. Timelines are approximate.

Step-by-step roadmap

1
Get job offer
Search via LinkedIn, StepStone, XING, or Bundesagentur für Arbeit.
→ Before applying for visa
2
Check Blue Card eligibility
Salary threshold 2026: €45,300 (general) or €35,100 (shortage occupations).
→ Before visa
3
Apply for visa / Blue Card
At German embassy. Required: job contract, degree, salary confirmation.
→ 4–8 weeks
4
Arrive in Germany
Book temporary housing. Many employers assist with relocation.
Day 1
5
Register (Anmeldung)
Visit Bürgeramt within 2 weeks. Essential for everything else.
→ Week 1
6
Get Steuer-ID
Sent automatically 2–4 weeks after Anmeldung. Give to employer on day one.
→ Week 2–4
7
Open bank account
Need IBAN for salary. Commerzbank, Deutsche Bank, or N26.
→ Week 1
8
Get health insurance
Employer registers you with a Krankenkasse. Choose TK, AOK, or Barmer.
→ Week 1
9
Apply for Blue Card residence permit
At Ausländerbehörde within 3 months. Bring job contract, degree, Anmeldung.
→ Month 1–3
10
Exchange driving licence
If non-EU. Apply at Führerscheinstelle with original licence and translations.
→ Month 2–6
11
File first tax return
Steuererklärung — most employees get money back. Deadline July 31.
→ Following year